|
|
UKRAINE REMEMBRANCE by PASTOR DALE FREEMAN
As we march into another year, my mind flies back to the last time I ministered in Ukraine. With God's help, we'll return to that area again in 2003. I wrote afew reflections there those years ago along with a bit of poetry. I share it again now, and commit myself anew to redeeming that precious commodity called time. Pastor Petro Pekniy and his people open their arms wide and welcome me into the First Baptist Church of Khmelnitsky. It is like returning home, and the church is overflowing, many of them dear and precious friends from previous visits. The singing is already underway as I position myself on the platform. Victor Petrov, a famous composer and musician from Moscow is providing the music before I preach. He was, for many years, a leading composer of opera and motion picture scores under the Communists. Now, a dynamic Christian for eight years, his tremendous talents are dedicated to sharing Christ. For almost an hour he sings his original compositions, often punctuated with personal testimony and spiritual encouragement of the overflowing congregation. I stand to preach, and the Holy Spirit immediately liberates hearts, calling many down the aisles to claim His promise. As I survey them, I notice that we're all a little older since we were last together. Time is passing, opportunity is fleeting, and we don't have too much longer to take the Gospel to the world. I pray that I'll have opportunity to stand here again, sharing God's Word and celebrating His life-changing power amidst these brehren. Let it be so, dear Lord. Let it be so. Steadily now the clock is ticking, Measured unison with my heart. Reminding me of life's quick passing, And the moment to depart. Not much time to make a difference, Opportunity quickly come and past. Every sermon, every prayer, With the potential to be my last |
